Multi-use linkage device

ABSTRACT

A linkage device that can be connected with other linkage devices and to itself, the linkage device comprising a strip having a first end and a second end, a closure hub attached to the first end of the strip and having an opening to receive a second end and a locking mechanism within the closure hub, a connecting surface protruding from the strip operable to secure the second end within a closure device, and a tampering detection device connected to the linkage device.

This application is a Divisional of application Ser. No. 10/635,889,filed on Aug. 6, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,164,360 which claims priorityof Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/403,722, filed on Aug. 14,2002, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to a tie, and more particular to a linkage orbinding device with a plurality of uses where such uses include beingable to obtain use specific information from the closure device andbeing able to determine whether the device has been tampered with or hasfailed and to transport information and/or material through it toanother location.

Plastic ties are well known in the prior art and have been used for avariety of uses, such as security seals, and binding devices to holdobjects together. In recent years, plastic ties are now used in place ofmetal handcuffs especially when a plurality of arrests is made at agiven time where a police officer needs to handcuff more than oneindividual.

Security seals are used to insure that containers are not opened, ortampered with during shipping. Even though security seals were primarilyconstructed of metal, plastic seals later became popular since unlikemetal straps, plastic seals did not rust or corrode. Additionally,plastic seals are cheaper to produce. Nevertheless, current plasticseals also have drawbacks. For example it is believed that heat or gluecan be used to defeat a plastic seal. Specifically, plastic seals, orties have ratchet serrations or protrusions, on a surface, which lockinto a socket mechanism at one end of the tie. The socket mechanism hasbeen known to be defeated by using a thin pin to release the ratchetserrations from the socket mechanism. The ratchet serrations are thenlater re-reconnected to the socket mechanism with glue. Thus a user maynot know that the tie had been defeated or tampered with. Likewise,heating the plastic, such as in hot water, has also been known to defeatthe locking features, where the segment of the strap held in placewithin the socket mechanism loses its rigidity and is able to be removedfrom the socket. Having a seal or fastener that is not as easy to defeatand where an inspector can readily determine whether the device has beentampered with is desirable.

To assist with the healing process after certain medical procedures,surgical wire is usually used, such as to hold a separated bonetogether. For example, during an operation where a surgeon needs accessto a patient's heart, such as for a heart valve replacement or coronaryartery bypass, a median sternotomy procedure is performed where thesternum is typically separated longitudinally down the center of thebone, from the manubrium to the xyphoid, and then spread apart so that asurgeon has an unobstructed access to the heart for surgical exposure.Once the operation is complete, surgical wire, typically monofilamentstainless steel suture, is used to immobilize the separated bone of thesternum so that the bone may begin its healing process.

The surgical wire, which has limited flexibility, is placed around bothhalves of the divided sternum. It is then threaded between ribs in thecorresponding intercostal spaces and through the intercostal muscles oneither side of the sternum. Once placed around the back of the sternum,the ends of the wire are secured on the front side, where the ends aretwisted to pull together the halves of the sternum. Excess wire is thencut away and the twisted end is folded down onto the sternum.

After the wire is in place, it is not removed, unless there is anotheroperation. Depending on how much skin and fat covers the sternum, apatient may have ridges showing through his or her skin from thesurgical wire. These ridges may be uncomfortable when touched and alsolook abnormal, while also remaining as a constant reminder of thesurgery. Additionally, the wire may later erode through the skin, andcause a chronic draining sinus or osteomyelitis of the sternum. In somecases the sternum has to be completely removed due to infection. Due tothe physical characteristics of the wire, twisting the wire may increasethe cold work in the wire, which makes it more brittle thus increasesthe probability that it may break. In fact, a majority do eventuallybreak.

Situations arise where a doctor may need to know information about aprior surgery or a patient's prior condition. If the patient does notreadily have the information available, the doctor may have to requestthe information from another hospital and/or another doctor, possiblylocated in another state or country. An emergency room situation is oneinstance where obtaining such information immediately may be paramount.Thus having the information provided on the binding device would bebeneficial not only to the doctor, but to the patient as well.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

This invention is directed to a linkage, or binding, device whereinformation can be collected, received or transported through thebinding device. Such examples of information includes, but is notlimited to, who installed the device, whether the device has beentampered with, or whether the device has failed. The invention isfurther directed to a device that can be used in a plurality ofapplications ranging from medical uses to industrial uses.

In one preferred embodiment of the present invention a linkage device isdisclosed. The linkage device is comprised of a strip, a hub, aconnecting surface protruding from the strip to provide a connectingsurface to the hub, and a tampering detection device connected to orimbedded in the binding device. An application distinct tag signifying aspecific use for the linkage device can also be part of the linkagedevice.

In another preferred embodiment a linkage system is disclosed. Thelinkage system includes a linkage device and an insertion device forplacing the linkage device around an object to bind, such as a bone.Another preferred embodiment is a linkage system having a linkage deviceand a detection device that can read information contained on anapplication distinct tag.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention itself, both as to organization and method of operation,may best be understood by reference to the following description inconjunction with the accompanying drawings in which like numbersrepresent like parts throughout the drawings and in which:

FIG. 1 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the linkagedevice;

FIG. 2A is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the linkagedevice before being expanded;

FIG. 2B is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the linkagedevice after being expanded;

FIG. 3 is another illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a closurehub engaging a strip;

FIG. 4 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the linkagedevice being placed around a bone, such as sternal segments;

FIG. 5 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a crosssectional view of a strip (first end) of the linkage device;

FIG. 5A is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a crosssectional view of a strip where a material is spooled within;

FIG. 6 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the linkagedevice with an air channel and a reservoir;

FIG. 7 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the linkagedevice where an illumination material has left the reservoir;

FIG. 8 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the linkagedevice with a tamper and/or information detection device;

FIG. 9 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a closure hubwith a compartmentalized baffle;

FIG. 10 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a closure hubwith a removable top;

FIG. 11 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the closure hubwith the removable top opened;

FIG. 12 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a closure hubcomprising a combination lock system;

FIG. 13 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a torque screwsecuring and releasing system;

FIG. 14 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the linkagedevice connected to a dilator;

FIG. 15 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of anotherembodiment of the linkage device placed around two bone segments, suchas two sternal segments;

FIG. 16A is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a vascularclip with a soft closure mechanism;

FIG. 16B is an illustration of another exemplary embodiment of avascular clip with a soft closure mechanism;

FIG. 16C is an illustration of another exemplary embodiment of avascular clip, in a closed configuration;

FIG. 17 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of an insertiondevice for long bones and sternal closure allowing for use of amultiplicity of devices for insertion;

FIG. 18 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of an insertiondevice in use;

FIG. 19 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a plurality oflinkage devices around a long bone;

FIG. 20 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the linkagedevice used to close a long fascial wound;

FIG. 21 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of an insertionend of another insertion device;

FIG. 22 is an exemplary embodiment of a side view of the insertiondevice disclosed in FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of an insertiondevice with a stamper;

FIG. 24 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a drillinsertion device;

FIG. 25 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a drillinsertion device used with Stealth Technology™;

FIG. 26 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of an insertiondevice for a plurality of vascular clips;

FIG. 27 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a plurality ofthe linkage devices daisy-chained together and illustrating a motorizedclosure hub;

FIG. 28 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of an electricsocket adapter;

FIG. 29 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the electricsocket adapter engaged in a closure hub;

FIG. 30 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a box kitewindmill device used to generate power through a linkage device;

FIG. 31 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a plurality oflinkage devices used as a sign;

FIG. 32 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a plurality oflinkage devices daisy-chained together where the hubs are light sockets;

FIG. 33 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a plurality oflinkage devices connected and used for an endoscope for the small bowel;

FIG. 34 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a funnel-likedevice connected to the binding device;

FIG. 35 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a closure hubwith a plurality of closure locations;

FIG. 36A is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a bindingdevice with strips used as handcuffs;

FIG. 36B is an illustration of another exemplary embodiment of a bindingdevice with strips used as handcuffs;

FIG. 37 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a bindingdevice with a two strips in use;

FIG. 38 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a net, fenceand/or antenna constructed with a plurality of binding devices;

FIG. 39 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a corner tab;

FIG. 40 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the linkagedevice tunneled within a knee, such as a posterior cruciate ligamentrepair;

FIG. 41 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of an externalcortical anchor (in the bone) end of the linkage device;

FIG. 42 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the linkagedevice secured to a tibia and femur to replace a medial collateralligament MCL;

FIG. 43 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a linkagedevice used as a replacement bicycle tire;

FIG. 44 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a block diagramof a passive detection system for a linkage device;

FIG. 45 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the linkagedevice used with a prosthesis, such as a hip replacement prosthesis;

FIG. 46 is an illustration of a plurality of linkage devices being usedto pump oil from a submerged oil tanker;

FIG. 47 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a drill bitbeing used to anchor a linkage device in a bone (internal trabecularbone anchor); and

FIG. 48 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment a cross sectionalview of linkage devices used as braces to correct teeth alignment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

With reference to the figures, exemplary embodiments of the inventionwill now be described. The scope of the invention disclosed isapplicable to a plurality of linking, bindings, fasteners, closures,ties, or other connecting devices used to hold an object or objectstogether or to transport material (or information, energy, photons,etc.) from one location to another. Thus, even though severalembodiments are described specific to certain medical devices, thisinvention is also applicable to other variations of sutures, linkage,and binding devices. Additionally, even though certain embodiments ofthe invention are disclosed for use with a human, one skilled in the artwill readily recognize that this invention is also applicable toanimals.

Likewise, even though certain embodiments are also disclosed specific tosecurity devices, this invention is applicable to other closure deviceswhere a user would benefit from being able to make a visual inspection,either with or without an additional instrument, such as a microscope ora photon-detection device, to determine whether the closure device hasfailed. Such other uses may include but are not limited to, luggage tiesto prevent unauthorized entry into luggage or to identify luggage to atraveler via the traveler's ticket, personalized ribbons for wrappedpackages at holidays, containers to be cleared, or already cleared,through customs, or to identify cargo at traffic or security checkpoints, such as border crossings.

Additionally, the scope of the present invention is not limited to asingle linkage device. The present invention can be connected to otherversions of the present invention or variations thereof for other useswhere it is not used to bind objects but to transport material or as astructure to support the placement of other structures. The size of thepresent invention may also vary, since this invention can be sized foruse in Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) technology, or smaller(nano-technology), and up to heavy construction uses, or larger.

As will become clear to one skilled in the art, the elements of thepresent invention can be imbedded inside of the invention or connectedto an outer surface of the invention. For clarification, when connectedto or imbedded is used, these terms are meant to address both ways, andother conceivable ways, of putting the present invention together.

FIG. 1 is an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Theinvention 10 is a strip 12 of material that is elongated in shape wherea first end has a closure device or hub device 14. The strip 12 may bepliable, rigid and/or expandable. The material that comprises thepresent invention may be biodegradable material or a material that willnot deteriorate over time, or a variation where parts may deterioratewhereas other parts will not. With respect to being expandable, in apreferred embodiment the strip has segments which can expand, asillustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B. In other embodiments, such as thosediscussed below, the center of the strip may be hollow wherein othercomponents are placed. The elongated shaped segment 12 of the linkagedevice 10, or strip, can have a plurality of shapes and lengths. Forexample the cross section of the strip can be cylindrical, triangular,rectangular, and/or any other geometric or non-geometric, shape. Thesecond end 15 of the invention fits within the hub 14. The second end 15of the invention has protrusions 17, or ridges, extending from theinvention so that when the second end 15 engages the closure device 14,the protrusions 17 engage a closing mechanism in the closure device 14that prevents the second end 15 from being pulled out of the closure hub14. The protrusions 17 can be located on any surface of the strip. Theprotrusions 17 may comprise a plurality of shapes such as, but notlimited to, shark-tooth ridges, and recessed double ridge backconfiguration ridges. The protrusions may extend in a plurality ofdirections from the strip 12. Though the term protrusion is used, theprotrusions could be indentions or another form of missing area from astrip wherein the hub 14 will have protrusions to engage the indentions.

As is illustrated in FIG. 3, in one preferred embodiment the strip 12comprises forward facing protrusions 117 and backward facing protrusions17. As discussed previously, when placed within the hub 14, the backwardfacing protrusions 17 engage an inner receiving surface 133 of the hub14. The hub 14 has a plunger device 129, or devices so that when thestrip 12 has engaged the hub 14, the plunger devices 129 are positionedin a locked position, engaging the forward facing protrusions 117. Tofurther prevent tampering, plunger locks 131 are provided to hold theplunger devices 129 in place. As further illustrated, rolling pins, orball bearings, 134 are located within the hub 14 and in one embodimentare the inner receiving surface that assist with the strip 12 engagingthe hub 14. The rolling pins 134 assist the strip 12 in moving freelyinto the hub 14.

“Viper-teeth” 19, as illustrated in FIG. 4, located near the closure end14 of the invention or linkage, or binding, device 10, can also beincluded on the linkage device 10. The viper teeth 19 are used to assistin holding the invention 10 in place. Once positioned around an objectthe viper teeth 19 help to anchor it, preventing the invention 10 fromrotating or sliding around the object 30.

As is further disclosed in FIG. 1, an application distinct tag 20 isalso connected to the invention 10. In a preferred embodiment the tag 20is used to identify a specific use of the linkage device. Theapplication distinct tag, or information data tag 20, may containinformation. For example, this information can be deposited in amultiplicity of fashions detectable by instruments or sensation (seeing,hearing, touching, smell, and/or taste) of sentient beings. Thisinformation can be visible by the naked eye, by photon activation of theinformation, and/or by electronic activation wherein the information tag20 may be on the surface, or imbedded, as illustrated in FIG. 2B, withinthe linkage device. The information can be encoded where it isaccessible at a given frequency located anywhere over a photonicfrequency range. As further illustrated in FIG. 2B, the tag 20 mayreside on and/or in the hub 14. Examples of photon activation techniquesinclude, but are not limited to, laser, visible light photons, radiofrequency photons, X-ray photon, gamma-ray photon, ultraviolet photon,and infrared photons, as illustrated in FIG. 8. With respect to the useof the invention in a living organism, the infrared photons aregenerated from a patient's own body heat. In each example a receiver 92,or reader, of each respective photon activated information is suited tothe type of activation used. In certain situations, the receiver 92 isable to read the tag 20 through other material such as, but not limitedto, reading a tag located within a truck, via a Computerized Tomography(CT) scan, or through a large amount of fatty tissue. The informationmay be tactile, have sound, or a smell as well.

For medical uses, the tag 20 may be made of, but is not limited to,titanium, gold, barium, or another non-Ferro magnetic material, which isX-ray visible, and where an identification code, or data, is placed. Ina preferred embodiment, the tag 20 includes markings which can bevisible by the naked eye and/or by photon activation of information onthe plate, which is then read by a photon reader 92, as illustrated inFIG. 8. The information contained on the tag 20 may be an alphanumericcode, bar code, imprinted letters, numbers, symbols, digital code,and/or a predefined frequency. The information is just that, to includeany way of encoding data that can be retrieved at a later date orconcurrent to the data recording, e.g., tactile bumps of Braille. Withrespect to using X-ray photons to decode information, the reader 92 canbe a hand-held reader which can read the information as light photonsemanating from an illuminated X-ray film or soft copy of a digitalradiograph or CT scan. In another preferred embodiment (not shown) asoftware reader is built into a computer program to read the informationbased on a defined region of interest.

With respect to using laser light to decode information, the reader canbe a hand held laser, which activates a solution containing afluorescent material or reflective material inside of the identificationplate or tag 20. The symbolic data is then fluoresced, or reflected,back to a visible light photon receiver. When the invention is used formedical uses, such as sutures, such an approach is more useable withthin patients or children, those typically with less than a fewcentimeters, such as five, of skin and subcutaneous fat covering thesesutures.

When using radio frequency to decode information, in a preferredembodiment the tag 20 is a self-regulated chip, which turns off whendetecting imaging frequencies from a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)system. In one embodiment (not shown), this chip is a small coil with aselected set of radio frequency coils that provides a unique signature,such as 28.3 hertz and 32.5 hertz receiver coils imbedded in the platecoil. One skilled in the art will readily recognize other configurationsare available with using radio frequency technology and passiveidentification technology. In other words, the coil's receptionfrequency can be individualized as a unique signature for each tag 20much like a radio station has its own frequency designation on the radiofrequency spectrum of a radio dial.

As illustrated in FIG. 45, a linkage device 10 as discussed above isused as part of a prosthesis 111, such as a hip prosthesis, wherein itsunique code, or inductive frequency signature, can be read at a securitycheck point where a metal detector is used, such as at an airportwherein the security guard can readily ascertain that a reason a user isactivating the metal detector is because of the metal prosthesis 111. Ina preferred embodiment, the security guard would use a detection device91 that transmits and receives a photonic and/or electronic signal fromthe linkage device. The use described is not limited to a hipprosthesis. The present invention can also be used with, but not limitedto, a shoulder, arm, and/or knee prosthesis as well as with a metalplate fitted within a skull, pacemaker, infusion pump, etc. In apreferred embodiment, the linkage device is provided in the prosthesiswherein the linkage device is insulated and coupled to the prostheticdevice and emits a “prosthetic specific” inductive signature. In anotherpreferred embodiment, the linkage device is resistively coupled to themetal in the prosthesis which results in the prosthesis having aspecific identity or signature. Though illustrated as being connected tothe greater trochanter 47, the linkage device 10 can be integrated intothe prosthesis 111.

In another preferred embodiment, such as is illustrated in FIG. 2B, thetag 20 also has its own battery 106 and emits its own radio wavefrequency that is used for information storage, access of information,and/or determining a location of the present invention. In anotherpreferred embodiment, the tag 20 is GPS active and gives a signal whichcan be used to determine the location of the linkage device, such as ifnecessary to locate a kidnapped child or adult who has a linkage devicein or on their possession. The signal may be delivered as a burstsignal, wherein information is rapidly sent. For example, with respectto a patient, who may have the present invention on or in his or herbody, when a reader is used to access information, the informationspecific to the patient is immediately accessible via a burst downloadusing a capacitor/battery storage device 106 within the hub.

For decoding information using infrared photon techniques, in oneexemplary embodiment, strips of different types of heat transmissiblematerial are imbedded in the tag 20. In one embodiment, one strip is alinear bubble of air, which is a poor heat transmitter, and the next isa thin plate of metal, which has higher heat conductivity. When usedtogether as an off/on pattern, the tag 20 is encoded with any type ofinformation needed. For simplicity, a bar code is a preferred embodimentto provide encoded information using this technique.

In another preferred embodiment (not shown), the respective reader isoperable to access a national database containing information about aplurality of the present invention. The reader sends the information tothe computer containing the national database and processes theinformation, reads and matches the identification with the specificinvention. For example, if the present invention 10 is used on apatient, the information provided is specific to the patient. Likewise,information specific to a container which is secured by the presentinvention, such as in through a security check point, such as may beused by the United States Customs Department, is also assessable in thesame manner. With respect to a patient, examples of information that canbe stored in the database, but not limited to, include criticalinformation about the patient as well as name, date of the surgery, anddrug allergies.

The length and the width of the invention 10 can be a plurality ofsizes, where the length and width are tailored and customized for agiven or particular application, such as, with respect to medical uses,any patient ranging from an infant to an adult or even large mammals.For example, when using the present invention 10 as a suture, a smallerembodiment of the present invention could be used for a child whencompared to an adult. Specifically, depending upon the thickness of asternum, bone or fascial wound size, the length can be customized. Thethickness of the linkage device 10 in the medical application can alsovary from less than a millimeter to a width matching the distancebetween two adjacent ribs of a given patient, or animal. In the case ofa long bone, thicker bands of the linkage device may be preferable.

In a preferred embodiment, when used for medical purposes, the invention10 further includes an antibiotic and/or antifungal impregnation of thelinkage device 10. The present invention may also have a bacteriostaticand/or a bactericidal coating. The antibiotic and/or antifungalimpregnation may help to reduce the incidence of postoperative woundinfections, and osteomyelitis. The device may be biodegradeable in thebody whereas it is designed to last as long as needed to serve itsclosure purpose. In another medical use (not shown), externally appliedinductive power can be supplied to heat the linkage device to coagulatelocal tissues by heating the linkage device to a defined temperature,such as in tumors of the liver where the device has been deployed by acatheter into the tumor. The device may be designed to fail at a certaintemperature, to prevent damaging, such as by boiling, the surroundingtissue.

As illustrated in FIG. 5, in another preferred embodiment, the presentinvention 10 has a multi-layered strip 12, or an annular ringconfiguration. In one embodiment, the inner layer 62, consisting of acasing and an inner canal, is an opening that can be placed undervacuum. The next outer layer 64 is a plurality of fiber optic strands.The next layer 66 is a plurality of metal threads, such as a spiral corethat may be conductive. The outer layer 68 is a plastic composite. Onelayer can be a cavity to allow a fluid to be transported through. Oneskilled in the art will readily recognize that the order of layers areinterchangeable and that the combination of layers may be changed toinclude more or fewer layers than discussed, such as will be discussedbelow.

In a preferred embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the strip 12has an air channel 70 disposed within an outer layer and that isvacuum-sealed. The tag 20 has a reservoir 72, such as an inkwell,connected to it wherein ink in the reservoir 72 is under pressure andallows information, or markings, on the tag 20 to be visible. If thepresent invention is tampered with, the vacuum-seal is broken and theink exits the reservoir 72, entering into a second reservoir (notshown), or leaving the present invention and getting the ink on thecontainer that it is used to bind, causing the image of information tobecome less visible, as shown in FIG. 7. Thus by looking at the tag 20,a user can determine if the present invention 10 has been tampered with,or whether the present invention 10 has failed. Though ink is disclosedabove, any flowable medium, such as a liquid, gas, and/or a scent ineither a liquid, gas, or solid form, may be used in place of ink.

Similarly, though not shown, in another preferred embodiment, the strip12 has fiber optic strands disposed within the strip where the strandsilluminate the tag 20 or information contained on the tag 20. A lightsource, such as an external source, is provided, as discussed below, toilluminate the strands. If the present invention 10 is tampered with,where one or more strands are broken, the image of information becomesless visible. Just as discussed previously, by looking at the tag 20, auser can determine if the present invention has been tampered with orwhether the present invention 10 has failed.

In another preferred embodiment using fiber optic strands, the strandsare doped, such as with a metal, so that a unique frequencycharacteristic is established for each strand. When a plurality ofstrands is placed within a strip, a unique spectrum of frequencyabsorption can be read from the linkage strip 10. If the device istampered with wherein even one strand is broken, the resultinginterrogated frequency spectrum will change. A reader device 90, furtherillustrated in FIG. 8, as discussed below can be used to detect whetherthe linkage device has failed or has been tampered with.

As further illustrated in FIG. 8, the present invention 10, either onthe strip 12, tag 20, or hub 14, also comprises a port 80 to measure aphoton level and/or an electrical flux 82, such as conductive reading orresistance reading, of the present invention 10. In another preferredembodiment, an electric input port 84 and/or photon input port 86 arealso provided. Thus in operation, when the present invention has the hub14 connected to its second end 15, a measurement of the photon fluxand/or electrical flux is made and recorded. The same readings are thentaken later to compare to determine if there has been a decrease orsignificant change (one beyond the expected statistical variation for achange that is expected due to environmental conditions). Such a changewould then suggest that the present invention 10 had failed or had beentampered with. Similarly, an electric charge can be supplied through theelectric port and a resistance measurement is read wherein a secondcharge, of the same value, and reading may be taken at a destination, orwhile in transport to determine whether the present invention 10 hasfailed or has been tampered with. As further illustrated in FIG. 8, areader device 90 is illustrated which is used to take such readings(electrical or photonic), including a bar code reader 92 to readinformation on the tag 20 if the information is in bar code form. Oneskilled in the art will recognize that instead of a bar code reader 92,other reader technology, such as disclosed with respect to FIG. 45, maybe incorporated depending on the photonic technology used for the tag20, including computer software that can read the information from asoft copy of the information.

To further illustrate how energy travels through the linkage device, thereader 90 supplies energy, either photonic or electrical, which travelsthrough the strip 12 into the first end 15. As illustrated in FIG. 29,the energy flows through protrusions 122. The energy then travels intothe clam feet 125 that make contact with the protrusions 122, therbygaining entrance into the hub 14. Once in the hub 14, the energy istransported by its respective carrier to either a photonic or electricalport.

In another preferred embodiment, illustrated in FIG. 9, the closure hub14 has a collapsible baffle 94 disposed within the hub 14 where glueresides. The baffle comprises at least one chamber, but may comprise aplurality of chambers. Once the ends 14, 15 of the present invention 10engage each other, a user would squeeze the closure hub 14, which inturn causes the baffle 94 to collapse, thus releasing the glue monomerswhich permanently fixes the ends 14, 15 of the present invention 10together after the polymeric reaction. In another embodiment, the baffle94 has two chambers 95, 96 wherein two different reagents are storedand, once squeezed and the reagents combine and go into a slot 103containing the first end to seal it permanently wherein a polymericreaction results that seals the ends 14, 15 together. This baffle 94also may contain material that is released externally to the hub whenexternally activated. The baffle may contain a medicinal agent.

In another preferred embodiment, the hub device is configured so thatthe present invention 10 is reusable. In one embodiment, illustrated inFIGS. 10 and 11, the closure hub 14 has a removable cover 98 wherescrews 101, or another securing component, are removed to open the hub14. As previously disclosed, the locking mechanism 102 disposed underthe removable cover 98 is operable to allow the strip 12 to enter theclosure device 14 in one direction but not to exit in the same directionentered. With the cover 98 removed, a user can disengage the end 15 ofthe present invention engaging the closure hub 14, as disclosed in FIG.11. In one embodiment the teeth 102 are connected to the back side ofthe cover 98 so that removing the cover 98 disengages the teeth 102 fromthe strip, thereby freeing the strip 12 from the hub 14. Though notshown, in another preferred embodiment a single button operates as arelease mechanism, releasing the strip 12 from the hub 14

In another preferred embodiment, a control (not shown) within theclosure hub 14 is accessible to allow the components 102 engaging theprotrusions 17 to release the protrusions only after the cover 98 isremoved. In another preferred embodiment, disclosed in FIG. 12, theclosure hub 14 has a combination-locking device 104 built into theclosure hub 14. When a correct combination is entered, the closure hub14 releases the protrusions 17 from the hub lock. In another preferredembodiment, the closure hub 14 releases the second end 15 when a passivetag is passed near the present invention, which in turn activates theclosure hub to release the second end.

In another preferred embodiment (not shown) the present invention has anelectronic chip that releases the closure hub 14 from the second end 15when an electrical code is recognized by the chip. The electrical codecan be generated by a device generating the electrical code and includedin a plurality of objects, such as a key chain. In yet anotherembodiment, illustrated in FIG. 44, passive identification technology isused to release the strip 12 from the hub 14 wherein when a passive tagis passed near the linkage device 10, the hub 14 will release the strip12. More specifically, the hub 14 has an electronic latch system 350which releases the strip 12 when a proper signal is recognized. The hub14 is electrically activated with a circuit 352 that moves the latch 350between a first (closed) and second (open) position. A portable powersupply 106 is also provided. A power signal transmitter 355 is connectedto the power supply 106 for transmitting an inducing power signal at apredetermined electromagnetic flux. A passive identification tag 357 isattached to a device, such as a key chain, and is preprogrammed with anidentification code that is pre-selected from a large number ofavailable identification codes. The passive identification tag 357 isresponsive to the power signal and provides a return signal on the powersignal representative of the preprogrammed identification code so thatthe power signal acts as a carrier of the imposed code signal. A readercircuit 360 is connected to the power signal transmitter and to theelectrical activation circuit. The reader circuit 360 is responsive tothe return signal to activate the electrical activation circuit toprovide power from the portable power supply to move the latch betweenthe first position to the second position, when the reader circuitdetermines that the identification code represented in the return signalmatches an authorization code stored in the reader circuit 360.

In another preferred embodiment, illustrated in FIG. 13, an adjustabletorque screw is disclosed as part of the hub 14. One skilled in the artwill readily recognize a plurality of ways that an adjustable torquescrew can be mechanized as part of the hub 14. FIG. 13 illustrates oneembodiment where the torque screw 200, when rotated is used to eitherfeed the strip 12 into the hub 14 or to remove the strip 12 from the hub14. In a preferred embodiment as illustrated, the torque screw 200 isconnected to a flat ratchet wheel 202 that has an outer edge 203 thatengage rollers 206, 215 where the second roller 215 is a reverse rollerengaging a second vertical roller 205, causes it to turn opposite thefirst vertical roller 206. The bottom of the plate 204 has protrusions207 that engage a horizontal roller 210. The vertical and horizontalrollers 205, 210 engage the strip 12. Beneath the strip 12 is a secondhorizontal roller 212. A reverse roller 215 is provided between theright vertical roller 205 and the ratchet wheel 202 which allows theright vertical roller 205 to spin in the opposite direction of the leftvertical roller 206. Torque screw 200 turns the ratchet wheel 202 to theright (or left) which engages the vertical roller 206 and turns it in acounter direction left (or right). The reverse roller 215 on the otherside engages the ratchet wheel 202 and also turns in a counter directionleft. This reverse roller 215 engages the vertical roller 205 to turn itto the right (left). Thus both vertical rollers 205, 206 spin inopposite directions to pull/push the strip 12 into/out of the hub 14,via their directional influence on the turning of the horizontal spikes209 and due to the turning of the bottom ratchet wheel 217 by thevertical roller 205, while the top ratchet wheel 202 is turned in anopposite direction by the torque screw 200.

There are numerous medical and dental uses for a preferred embodiment ofthe present invention. One such use is as a sternum suture-closingdevice, as is illustrated in FIG. 14. Prior to placing the invention 10around a sternum, a dilator 22, made of plastic, metal, silk, orTeflon™, secures a needle 23, typically a stainless steel needle, to thesecond end 15 of the present invention. The invention is made of anX-ray transparent material, and has a closure device hub or socket 14,such as a closure clip at a second end. In a preferred embodiment,shark-tooth ridges 17, or other shaped ridges such as in a recesseddouble ridge back configuration, begin at the first end 15 and extendfor a specified length of the invention 10. On a flat surface betweenthe closure clip, or hub 14, and the ridges 17, an identification plate,tag, or chip 20 is attached, or imbedded. In another preferredembodiment the chip is the hub 14. On that portion of the invention thatcontacts the anterior aspect of the sternum, an anti-slip surface 25,such as, but not limited to, roughening the backside, or Gortex™, may beapplied. This surface will help hold the invention 10 in place as it iswrapped around the sternum and the first end 15 is secured in the hub14. In another preferred embodiment, the backside may have a gluesurface, which will hold the invention in place once stationary for agiven period. As already discussed and illustrated in FIG. 4,viper-teeth 19 extend from or near the hub 14 towards the bone beingrepaired. Similarly, in another preferred embodiment (not shown),reverse viper-teeth 19 are positioned on the hub 14 and extend towardsthe cavity of the hub 14 receiving the second end 15, thus alsoassisting in holding the second end 15 in place once inserted into thehub 14.

In one preferred embodiment, as further illustrated in FIG. 4, once theneedle 23 is inserted around the under surface of the sternum 30, oranother bone or object, the needle is threaded through the closure clip14 until the second end 15 of the invention 10 engages the closure hub14. Then the second end 15 is pulled through until the invention 10 haspulled the sternum 30 together to effect the healing process. FIG. 15illustrates another configuration of the present invention 10. Insteadof being looped around the sternum 30 once, to provide externalcompression to assist the healing process and to reduce the number ofsutures required to close the sternum, the present invention 10 isdouble-looped, in a “pretzel shape,” around the sternum 30. Thus, inthis configuration, a single suture closes two sternal segments.

FIGS. 16A, 16B, and 16C are exemplary embodiments of the presentinvention used as vascular clips. The hub 14 has an opening 221 in avertical direction wherein the second end of strip 12 bends upward andfits within the opening of the hub 14. The strip 12 has a first part 225and a second part 227 that are connected by a joint 230. The first andsecond parts are convexly shaped to apply extra pressure to the vesselor pipe that is being clamped. The first part 225 and the bottom 227 aremore rigid. The area where the first part 225 and the second part 227meet to form the clamp section may have soft or hard teeth 232 andintervening gaps 233 which can be varied in configuration based on theuse of the clip. As is further illustrated in FIGS. 16A, 16B, and 16C,in one preferred embodiment the first part has teeth and gaps and thebottom part has alternating gaps and teeth to receive the top half 225seamlessly when the two parts 225, 227 are approximated at closure asshown in FIG. 16C. These teeth are however soft, and will yield to thevessel, or pipe wall, but will occlude the vessel or pipe lumen. Inother preferred embodiment, if needed, the teeth can be hard can act tocut or permeate the structure being clamped.

A plurality of tools may be used to insert the present invention 10within a patient. FIG. 17 illustrates a device, an insertion device 32,to allow for a plurality of the present inventions to be placed around abone or close a wound at one time. As illustrated, the insertion device32 has a first and a second handle 34, 36. Between the handles is a rod38, or bar, which has attachments 40 for the needles 23. The needles areattached to each of the present inventions by way of dilators 22, asshown in FIG. 4. In one embodiment, the needles 23 are placed throughthe rod 38 by separating the rod vertically into two pieces 35, 37 whereonce the needles 23 are positioned, closure devices 41, such as screws,hold both parts 35, 37 of the rod 38 and the needles 23 in place. Oneskilled in the art will readily recognize that other embodiments areavailable to connect the needles to the rod. Since 3 to 6 suture wiresare typically used to close a sternum 30, the device can hold as many ofthe linkage devices as needed. In a preferred embodiment, the needleattachments 40 are adjustable in a right to left direction, or a lateraldirection along the rod 38 when the insertion device 32 is parallel to ahorizontal surface, so that a spacing of the needles 23 is specific to agiven patient. This spacing can be pre-set based on measurements takenfrom a pre-operative X-ray of rib interspaces of the patient, or made atthe time of wound closure, tailored to fit the size needed.

In operation, as illustrated in FIG. 18, a surgeon holds both handles34, 36, similar to holding a rolling pin, while standing on thepatient's side, such as the left side, of a patient above the splitsternum. The needles 23 are introduced into the intercostal spaces onthe side of the sternum farthest away from the surgeon. The handles 34,36 are physically rotated with a forward twist to insert the needlesthrough the muscle layer. Once through the muscle layer, the device ispulled towards the surgeon advancing the needles behind the sternum 30,until the needles 23 start to protrude through the intercostalinterspaces on the other side of the split sternum 30 (i.e., the sideclosest to the surgeon). The apparatus is unclamped, and then eachneedle 23 is pulled through the intercostal space, such as with forceps.Each needle is then threaded through the hub 14 of the linkage device 10to secure the invention around the wound, split sternum or any otherdefect requiring closure. For example, an osteoporotic femur 42, asillustrated in FIG. 19, fractured in multiple places requiring an intramedullary rod 44 and multiple circumferential support bands 10 to holdthe bone together. As is discussed in more detail below, in anotherpreferred embodiment of the linkage device illustrated in FIG. 19, asingle hub 145 has a plurality of strips 12 extending from the hub 145.The hub 145 has a plurality of openings to accept the plurality ofstrips 12. As further illustrated in FIG. 19, the linkage device havingthe plurality of strips can be used for certain areas of a body, such asfor fixation of a fractured greater trochanter 47 located on the femur.

In another embodiment, the insertion device 32 is used for long fascialwound closures, such as closing an abdominal wound as disclosed in FIG.20. In larger patients, steel sutures are currently used to close anabdominal wound because of the increased tensile strength of the wireversus routine silk and catgut dissolvable suture material. In apreferred embodiment, the insertion device 32 is expandable to close along wound, such as a long abdominal to pelvis incision. For such anincision, the insertion device 32 is expanded up to, but not limited to,40 to 50 cm.

In another preferred embodiment, a crimper/staple-like apparatus 46, orgun, is used to secure the linkage device around a bone 30. In apreferred embodiment, disclosed in FIG. 21, the gun has crimper jaws 48that bend the ends backward, as disclosed in FIGS. 21 and 22, and thenwhen activated, push the linkage device 10 around the bone causing theends 14, 15 to connect and lock. FIG. 22 further illustrates a pluralityof closure devices 10 loaded internally within the insertion gun 46. Aspring-loaded handle 49 is pulled close to activate closure of thecrimpers 48. In another preferred embodiment, illustrated in FIG. 23,the stapler device has a stamper mechanism 50 and a guide device 52 thatfits around the bone, or object, being mended, and comprises a push-armmechanism and roller device 54 to assist in placing the linkage device10 and smoothing it out to insure a secure fit around the bone andassists in locking the ends, 14, 15 together. The stamper mechanism alsohas the ability to imprint a date, time, or other information impressionupon the linkage device where the imprinted information can be read(e.g., physically photonically, or electronically).

In another preferred embodiment, illustrated in FIG. 24, a drill bitapparatus 56 is used to insert the linkage device 10 into a hardenedsubstance, such as a bone and/or concrete. The drill bit apparatus 56could be used in a surgical procedure involving Stealth Technology™,such as with a reference frame used to repair a fractured knee ordamaged ligament. As further illustrated in FIG. 24, the apparatus 56has a main body 58 and a drill bit end 60. A cavity 69 in which thelinkage device 10 fits is located within the main body 58 of theapparatus. In one embodiment, a top end 62 of the main body is removableso that the linkage device 10 may be placed within the cavity 69. Thedrill end 60 is detachable from the main body 58, such as by way ofdetachable clamps 64. Thus, in a second embodiment, the drill end 60 isremoved from the linkage device 10 by a screw 67 attaching the two. Thedevice is then placed into the cavity through a second end 66 of themain body 58, which is an alternate loading method.

In operation, either the whole apparatus 56 is rotated to allow the bit60 to burrow into the hardened substance or in a preferred embodiment,the main body 58 has a spring 59 which allows the apparatus to be springactivated and turned by pushing up and down by hand on the main body 58where a compression wall 61 is provided around the spring. Those skilledin the art will recognize other ways in which to mechanize the apparatus56 so as to effectuate a spring loaded drill press.

In another embodiment an electric motor or air powered driving device 71within the apparatus 56 turns the bit end 60. Though not illustrated, ifthe device is rotated, either a motor or an air powered rotation deviceis provided. In another preferred embodiment, the connection 67 betweenthe drill end 60 and the main body 58 is configured to allow the drillend 60 to pivot up to a one hundred and eighty degrees about theconnection point 67. In another embodiment, such as when used with aReference Frame 240, this device and its insertion can be coordinatedwith the patient's own unique anatomy determined from either a prior CTor MRI study. Stealth Technology™ has used this type of information inspinal surgeries. As is further illustrated in FIG. 25, the tip can berobotically guided and/or includes technology to be auto-finding tolocate where to insert the linkage device 10 within a body of material.Infrared or other locator diodes help to reference the apparatus 56 tothe patient in the Stealth™ Reference Frame 240.

With respect to the vascular clip multiple insertion deviceconfigurations, a preferred embodiment of an insertion device isillustrated in FIG. 26. The insertion device 245 holds a plurality ofclips, or linkage devices 10 where when one is inserted, a spring 247pushes another clip 10, as illustrated in FIGS. 16A and 16B, into placefor insertion. As illustrated the insertion device 245 has an area 250to close the clip 10 about to be inserted and an insertion hammer 252that pushes the clip into the operative field and then together pressesthe end of the strip 12 into the hub 14. A second arm 251 is provided onthe insertion device with a hammer end 252 that pushes the clip 10 outof its resting place and into the surgical field.

In another preferred embodiment, the linkage device may be daisy-chainedwith other embodiments of the linkage device. Daisy-chaining the linkagedevices may be needed to fit the linkage devices around an object largerthan the embodiments of an individual linkage device 10 currently athand. In another embodiment, the linkage devices may be daisy-chained totether objects or to move objects 110 about a fixed point or object 112,as disclosed in FIG. 27. In such cases, a need may arise to provideelectrical power through the linkage device, by way of an electricalline imbedded within the strip 114. In a preferred embodiment,illustrated in FIGS. 28 and 29, a power feeder 120, or electric socketadapter, fits within a closure hub 14. The power feeder 120 has electriccontacts 122 that engage a connection 125 within the closure hub 14,such as “clam foot” contacts 125 extending from the inner surface of theclosure hub, to receive the electricity. In a preferred embodiment, asurface within the closure hub 126, which may be spring loaded, isprovided to insure that the power feeder 122 contacts make contact withthe connection part, or “clam foot,” 125 of the closure hub 14. A secondend 130 of the power feeder 120 can be plugged into an electric outlet,or connected to some other power source, such as a battery, as furtherillustrated in FIG. 28. Except for the contacts 122 and connectionsurfaces 125, the rest of the closure hub 14 and feeder 120 areinsulated so that a user can handle these components without receivingan electrical shock. In another preferred embodiment (not shown) wherefiber optic stands are used, as discussed above, instead of providingpower through the feeder 120, the feeder 120 is used to provide photonsfrom a source to the fiber optic strands of the device 10.

In another preferred embodiment further illustrated in FIG. 27, the hub14 is motorized where once a strip engages the hub, a motor 140 can beactivated, either manually, or self activation, allowing the motor inthe hub 14 to pull the strip 12 into the hub's opening as far as needed.The motor 140 may be powered by any source such as, but not limited to,a solar cell that provides electricity to the motor, a fuel cell, suchas a battery connected to the linkage device, or an electric hub adaptoras discussed above with respect to FIGS. 28 and 29 where instead ofhaving power feeder 120 fitting within a hub 14, the hub is connecteddirectly to the power feeder 120. In one embodiment, the motor 140 canbe reversed should the strip 12 need to be removed from the motorizedhub 140 or if more length is needed for the strip. FIG. 27 shows fivehubs A, B, C, D and a power hub connection (not labled).

Power may be generated by or through the linkage device in a pluralityof ways. A plurality of power sources 106 can be used. Such powersources include, but are not limited to, battery, photo electric/laserlight, inductive power, atomic power, and/or glucose/mitochondrial fuelsupply. An example of power being generated is illustrated in FIG. 30.As illustrated, a strip 12 is connected to a kite 255, the sides ofwhich are derived from unspooling, or uncoiling, the devices, asillustrated in FIG. 5A and FIG. 38. The hub 14 has a propeller andgenerator 257 within it. The turning of the propeller 257, by wind orwater, generates electric power which is fed back through the strip 12to a hub 14, which has a battery storage device 106. The kite itself iscomposed of interlocking linkage devices where the kite sides are storedwithin the strip and are spooled out from within the linkage device 10.

In another embodiment power is provided from a remote source 107 whereinthe power is then stored in a battery or capacitor, as illustrated inFIG. 2B. Another source of power is inductive power. This can be addedto the linkage device wherein power is supplied by connecting the stripto the hub forming a conductive loop that can in turn have currentinduced within it from an external electromagnetic frequency flux 107.

Other embodiments of where the linkage device can be used where it isdaisy-chained together and/or stacked are illustrated in FIGS. 31through 33. In FIG. 31 the linkage devices are used to form a wall sign270 where the hub 14 has strips, and/or nobs, 12 extending from morethan one surface for connection to another hub. A surface 271 of the hub14 may be used for the signage or display area. FIG. 32 illustrates hubs14 that have recessed lighting sockets 280, where the identificationlabels 20 may also be illuminated. Power can be supplied by a plug 130and wire 120 to the hubs connected in series. FIG. 33 illustrates thelinkage device 10 being used as a small bowel endoscope in a human,since the length of the small bowl, approximately twenty-two feet,limits current endoscopes. With the daisy chain ability of this device,as many as are needed can be threaded through the intestines.

In another embodiment illustrated in FIG. 34, a funnel-like device 119is connected to the end of the hub 14 receiving the strip 12. Thefunnel-like device 119 further assists the linkage device 10 inconnecting both ends 14, 15 together and can assist in transport of afluid, including, but not limited to liquid, gas, plasma, and semisolid.FIG. 46 is an illustration of the several linkage devices daisy-chainedtogether and being used to remove a movable medium, such as oil, from asubmerged tanker leaking oil. In one preferred embodiment, suction isapplied through the linkage devices to pull the fluid through thelinkage devices. In another preferred embodiment, illustrated in FIG.46, the fluid is assisted by paddle devices 93 which are driven by aninternal motor powered from an external and/or internal power supply(not shown).

The linkage device 10 can also be configured where the closing hub, ormulti-hub, can accept a plurality of strips within a plurality ofopenings in a closing hub 145, as illustrated in FIG. 35, as discussedpreviously with respect to FIG. 19. The hub can have a plurality ofdifferent shapes such as, but not limited to, hexagonal, pentagonal,square, or etc., where each side could have an opening disposedtherethrough. In one embodiment a single strip 12 is connected to theclosure hub 145, but in other embodiments a plurality of strips 12 areconnected wherein the number of strips 12 can equal or exceed the numberof openings in the closure hub 145. As discussed above, one of theopenings may be used to provide electrical power to the linkage device10, which in turn provides power through all strips connected to theclosure hub.

Using a multi-hub, integrated structures can be created, such as a net,or another 3-dimensional structure, wherein a plurality of the linkagedevices with the multi-hub 145 are connected to form the basic structureof the net, and a finer material 147 is used to cover the basicstructure, as illustrated in FIG. 38. The material 147 is stored,spooled, within a first linkage device, as illustrated in FIG. 5A,wherein the other linkage devices comprise grooves, or connectingsurfaces (not shown), to hold the material 147 in place. The material147 is able to be pulled out and is retractable just like a window shadeor projector screen. The center spool 148 is spring-loaded to allow thematerial to be pulled back inside the outer shell of the strip 12.

In other exemplary embodiments, such as illustrated in FIGS. 36A and36B, the linkage device can be used as handcuffs where a multi hub 145is provided with two strips 12. The strips may extend from the same sideof a hub, as illustrated in FIG. 36B or extend in opposite directions asillustrated in FIG. 36A. The disposable cuffs could include a tag withsuch information as, but not limited to, the time/date of the arrest,crime committed, arresting officer, etc, tying a face, and/orfingerprints to an identification band by software (not shown). In otherembodiment, a chip for information storage or a capacitor to deliver ashock to a prisoner is provided (not shown). As further illustrated inFIG. 37, a pressure column device, or field dressing, is provided, wherethe multi hub 145 is used to apply pressure to a wound. As illustratedthe linkage device is used around a leg, such as the right leg 285 whilethe second strip immobilizes a second, or left, leg 286.

In another preferred embodiment, illustrated in FIG. 48, the linkagedevices are used as braces to correct teeth. As illustrated, a multi-hub145 is used where a strip 12 is wrapped around a tooth 97 and then isinserted through the hub 145. The strip is then inserted to an adjoininghub 145 connected to an adjacent tooth. A torque screw 200 is connectedto the hub 14 to secure the strips in place. In a preferred embodimentthe torque screw 200 does not adjust its own strip, but instead adjuststension on the strip attached to the adjacent tooth. In anotherembodiment, not shown, two torque screws are provided on a hub to adjusteach strip.

In another preferred embodiment, when using the linkage device to securepackages, instead of using glue on the back of the invention to hold theinvention in place, corner tabs 150 placed at the edges of the containerand the linkage device 10 is fed through an opening in the corner tabs150, as illustrated in FIG. 39. The protrusions 17 on the linkage devicewill then engage protrusions 154 on the inner surface of the corner tabs150, preventing the presenting invention from slipping. In anotherpreferred embodiment, the stopper ends 151, 153 of the corner tabs 150are pressed in toward the container thus providing a further block toany slippage of the linkage device 10 by acting as a stiff restraint tothe reverse motion of the device by engaging the protrusions 17.

Referring again to medical uses, the linkage device can be used toreplace a tendon in a knee, such as when an anterior and/or posteriorcruciate ligament (ACL or PCL, respectively) injury occurs. In apreferred embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 40 and 41, a tunnel 160 isdrilled into the femur 165 and tibia 166 so that the linkage device ispositioned in the location that the ACL or PCL should be located. Thetunnel 160 in the tibia 166 starts slightly wider and grows smaller sothat the external cortical hub 14 will fit snuggly within the tibia 166.Similarly, the end where the linkage device 10 exits the femur 165 has ahole 162 that is large enough to accommodate the fixed cortical hub 180it inserts into, as illustrated in FIG. 41. In another preferredembodiment the linkage device 10 could be inserted into the disc,attached to a hub (not shown). Once the linkage device is pulledthrough, a hub 170 is pushed onto a fixed device in the cortical 180which can accept the hub or strip of the device as needed. To show thisanchor, as illustrated in FIG. 41, the anchor 180 is fitted within ahole 162 where the anchor 180 has a connection point which holds alinkage device in place by way of its hub 170, or second end 15 (notshown). One skilled in the art will realize that the hub 170 can beplaced in the tibia 166 and the second end 15 passes through the femur165. These holes can be smaller than the tunnels currently used fornative ligament repairs.

As further illustrated in FIG. 40, cortical discs 218 are provided toanchor the strip 12 much as the anchor 180 are dclosed with respect toFIG. 41 and FIG. 42. In another preferred embodiment, illustrated inFIG. 47, when the drill insertion device 62 is used, the drill bit 60remains in the femur as the superior anchor with one end, the hub end,of the linkage device 10 connected to the bit and the other end 15 issecured by the external cortical bone anchor 218 outside of the tibia166, or an implanted anchor 162 (not shown). There can be a torque screw200, not shown, to tighten the artificial ligament as needed at theexternal end of the strip 12 as it exits the cortical disc 218.

As is fully illustrated herein, a plurality of uses for the linkagedevice is available. FIG. 42 is an illustration of an exemplaryembodiment of the linkage device used to repair a ruptured medialcollateral ligament. As illustrated a plate, anchor, or saucer, 305 issecured to the medial condyle of the femur. 301. In a preferredembodiment screws 303 are used to secure the plates, or anchor, 305, 306to the bone. A hub 304 is fixed to one plate 306 and a hub 314 with astrip is fixed to the second plate 305. Once the plates 305, 306 are inplace, the strip 12 is inserted into the second hub 304 until apredetermined tension is achieved. A tension screw 200 can modify thistension.

In another embodiment, illustrated in FIG. 43, the insertion hub is areplacement tire, or belt 320, such as for a bike, and the strip 12connects the hub until its two facing surfaces are flush or a minimumgap is left. In a preferred embodiment, an adjustable torque screw 200,discussed above, is used to further secure the replacement tire 320 to arim 325. In another preferred embodiment, not shown, the linkage deviceis used as an emergency fan belt where the strip connects to the hubafter being placed around its respective pulleys and then is tightenedby the adjustable torque screw.

While the invention has been described in what is presently consideredto be a preferred embodiment, many variations and modifications willbecome apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intendedthat the invention not be limited to the specific illustrativeembodiment, but be interpreted within the full spirit and scope of theappended claims.

1. A linkage system, said system comprising: (a) linkage devicecomprising a strip, a closure hub attached to a first end of said stripand having an opening to receive a second end of said strip and alocking mechanism within said closure hub to hold said second end wheresaid second end cannot be pulled out of said opening without userauthorization, a connecting surface on said strip operable to securesaid second end within said closure hub; (b) a tampering detectiondevice; and (c) an insertion device for simultaneously moving said atleast one linkage device around an object, said insertion device beingmoved relative to said object, and wherein said at least one linkagedevice is detachable from said insertion device once said at least onelinkage device is in place around said object; (d) wherein saidinsertion device comprises a first handle, a second handle, a needle, aconnection rod between said first handle and said second handle tosecure said needle, and a dilator comprising a first end and a secondend wherein said first end is connected to said needle and said secondend is connected to a second end of said at least one linkage device. 2.The system of claim 1 wherein said insertion device comprises aplurality of needles and dilators wherein said connection rod comprisesa plurality of needle attachments and each needle is at an adjustabledistance from each other needle along said connection rod.
 3. The systemof claim 1 wherein said at least one linkage device further comprises anapplication distinct tag signifying a specific use for said at least onelinkage device.
 4. The system of claim 1 wherein said at least onelinkage device is X-ray and MRI imaging compatible.
 5. The system ofclaim 1 wherein said at least one linkage device further comprises atleast one of an antibiotic medicine, an anti-fungal medicine, abacteriostatic coating, a bactericidal coating, biologically activemolecule that elutes into extra cellular spaces surrounding the linkagedevice, chemotherapeutic drugs, white cell chemotaxins, bone growthstimulants, and bone destructing inhibitors.
 6. The system of claim 2,wherein said connection rod is separated into a top and bottom piece,said needle is passed between said separated top and bottom pieces, andsaid top and bottom pieces are joined to secure said needle between saidtop and bottom pieces.
 7. The system of claim 6, wherein said top andbottom pieces are joined by passing at least one fastener through saidtop and bottom pieces.
 8. The system of claim 2, wherein said adjustabledistance of said plurality of needle attachments is adjusted based uponat least one dimension of a said object.
 9. The system of claim 8,wherein said object is a rib of a patient, and said at least onedimension is a rib interspace of said rib.
 10. The system of claim 2,wherein said first and second handles are configured to be held by amedical worker such that said plurality of needles are inserted into anintercostal space of a patient on an opposite side of a sternum of thepatient from the medical worker.
 11. The system of claim 10, whereinsaid first and second handles are configured to be rotated such thatsaid plurality of needles are inserted through a muscle layer of saidpatient, wherein upon said plurality of needles having been insertedthrough said muscle layer, said insertion device is configured to bepulled towards said medical worker.
 12. The system of claim 11, whereinupon said insertion device being pulled towards said medical worker,said plurality of needles are protruded through an intercostalinterspace on a near side of said sternum of said patient from saidmedical worker.
 13. The system of claim 12, wherein said plurality ofneedles are pulled through said intercostal space, such that each needleis subsequently threaded through said closure hub of said at least onelinkage device.
 14. The system of claim 3, wherein said applicationdistinct tag is positioned on said closure hub.
 15. The system of claim14, wherein said application distinct tag is visible by photonactivation of said specific use for said linkage device, said photonactivation including one of laser, radio frequency photons, X-rayphotons, gamma-ray photons, ultraviolet photons, and infrared photons.